Imane Khelif has spoken out in an interview for the first time after her controversial fight
Much talk has surrounded the fight with Algerian athlete, Imane Khelif and Italy’s Angela Carini.
The Italian athlete left the ring after just 46 seconds, with a suspected broken nose, following a contentious match.
The Algerian athlete, who was born and raised as a girl, was banned from competing in a gold medal match in Delhi by the International Boxing Association after failing a gender eligibility test but has been allowed to fight at the 2024 Olympics.
Prior to the match, the Algerian Olympic Committee defended their boxer, issuing a statement condemning the criticism she faced.
The Algerian Olympic Committee (COA) stated, “COA strongly condemns the unethical targeting and maligning of our esteemed athlete, Imane Khelif, with baseless propaganda from certain foreign media outlets. Such attacks on her personality and dignity are deeply unfair, especially as she prepares for the pinnacle of her career at the Olympics. The COA has taken all necessary measures to protect our champion.”
The IOC have also released a statement following the online abuse:
“Every person has the right to practice sport without discrimination.
“Eligibility rules should not be changed during an ongoing competition, and any rule change must follow appropriate processes and be based on scientific evidence.
“The IOC is committed to protecting the human rights of all athletes participating in the Olympic Games in accordance with the Olympic Charter, the IOC Code of Ethics, and the IOC Strategic Framework on Human Rights.
“The IOC is saddened by the abuse that the two athletes are currently receiving.”
During a sit-down interview with SNTV on 4 August, the athlete spoke in Arabic:
“I send a message to all the people of the world to uphold the Olympic principles and the Olympic Charter, to refrain from bullying all athletes, because this has effects, massive effects.
“It can destroy people, it can kill people’s thoughts, spirit and mind. It can divide people. And because of that, I ask them to refrain from bullying.
“I am in contact with my family two days a week. I hope that they weren’t affected deeply.
“They are worried about me. God willing, this crisis will culminate in a gold medal, and that would be the best response.”
The 25-year-old was born and raised as a female, she has competed in the women’s division since the start of her career and is named a female on her passport.
“I know that the Olympic Committee has done me justice, and I am happy with this remedy because it shows the truth,” she added.
“I don’t care about anyone’s opinion,” Khelif said.
“I came here for a medal, and to compete for a medal. I will certainly be competing to improve (and) be better, and God willing,
“I will improve, like every other athlete.”
